HBFF 2025

Hello! The Hamilton Black Film Festival (HBFF) stands out for its bold celebration of Black voices, stories, and cinematic excellence within a vibrant Canadian setting. Unlike many festivals, HBFF uniquely champions diversity by showcasing films that highlight Black culture, history, BIPOC community and innovation while fostering community engagement and cultural exchange. Its commitment to emerging and established Black filmmakers, combined with inclusive programming, panel discussions, and local partnerships, makes it not just a festival—but a movement that uplifts underrepresented narratives and connects audiences to the heart of Black storytelling.

Hamilton Black Film Festival – Our Commitment

At the Hamilton Black Film Festival, we are committed to celebrating, empowering, and amplifying Black voices in film and media. We believe in the transformative power of storytelling to educate, inspire, and build bridges across cultures.

We stand firmly for diversity, equity, and inclusion, providing a creative platform where Black filmmakers—emerging and established—can showcase their art, challenge narratives, and connect with global audiences.

Our commitment extends beyond the screen. We strive to:

  • Support and uplift underrepresented filmmakers through screenings, panels, and workshops

  • Create accessible opportunities for filmmakers of African descent and the African diaspora

  • Foster community engagement and cultural dialogue in Hamilton and beyond

  • Encourage mentorship and collaboration within the film industry

  • Promote stories that reflect the richness, resilience, and brilliance of Black life

We are not just a festival—we are a movement dedicated to advancing Black creativity, preserving cultural legacy, and igniting social change through film.

Our offerings

Film screenings

Experience a curated selection of groundbreaking films that highlight the diversity and richness of Black culture.

Workshops

Enhance your skills with our industry-led workshops, designed to empower emerging and established filmmakers.

Networking events

Connect with industry professionals, filmmakers, and artists at our exclusive networking events.

Q&A sessions

Engage with filmmakers and gain insights into their creative processes through our Q&A sessions.

About hbff

The Hamilton Black Film Festival (HBFF) stands out for its bold celebration of Black voices, stories, and cinematic excellence within a vibrant Canadian setting. Our festival is more than just screenings; it's a community, a platform, and a celebration of Black artistry.

Empowering black filmmakers

We are dedicated to adaptability and excellence in every aspect of HBFF. Explore how our services contribute to the success and recognition of Black filmmakers in Canada.

"HBFF provided an incredible platform for my film. The audience was engaged, and the connections I made were invaluable. Thank you for celebrating Black stories!"

Benjamin Wood

"The workshops at HBFF were a game-changer for me. I learned so much and gained the confidence to take my filmmaking to the next level. I'm forever grateful."

Emma Thompson

"HBFF is more than a film festival; it's a movement. It celebrates Black culture and provides a space for authentic storytelling. I'm proud to be a part of this community."

Oliver Hartman

Get in touch

Location

Hamilton, Ontario
Canada